Whether you have S-shaped waves or corkscrew ringlets, curly hair needs a good tool to help it look its best. Fortunately, you can find the best curling irons and wands on the market to create the waves or ringlets of your dreams — all without damaging your hair.
It’s not hard to pick the best curling iron for your hair type and budget, but there are many factors that can influence which one is the best fit for you. You’ll want to find a curling iron that heats quickly, reaches a high enough temperature to set your curls and is easy to use. You’ll also need to pay attention to the size of your barrel, says Danielle Dorsey, a stylist at Rita Hazan Salon in New York City. She suggests looking for a curling iron that has a 1.25-inch barrel. This size will allow you to wrap a longer strand of hair around the barrel to get the desired effect.
The temperature you use when you curl your hair is important for protecting it from damage, so always make sure to read the instructions on any hair tool you buy. There are different temperatures that are appropriate for various types of hair, so be sure to choose a temperature that is suitable for your hair’s texture and condition.
Before you try to curl your hair, it is a good idea to wash and condition your hair first. This will remove any dirt or tangles that may be in your hair and make the process of styling it easier. Then, you will need to towel dry your hair, which can be tricky as the water will drip out along with the curls that you have created.
Once you have finished curling your hair, try to loosen it by rubbing it with your fingers and running a blowdryer over it. This will help separate the curls and give them a more voluminous appearance, but be careful not to brush it out too much as this will only cause your curls to fall out and will result in an uneven, wavy look rather than the bouncy, defined curls that you wanted.
Next, you’ll want to apply a heat protectant spray on your hair before styling. This will prevent your hair from becoming brittle and damaged, which can lead to split ends and breakage.
You’ll also want to make sure you have a flat iron that is narrow (about 1-2 inches, or 2.5-5 cm), with rounded edges, as this is ideal for curling your hair. You can also use a wide-toothed comb or paddle brush to brush through your hair and create volume, but be sure not to apply too much product as this will weigh your hair down and prevent it from curling properly.
It’s also a good idea to check your hair color before using any hot tools, as the temperature can damage your locks and dull or fade it over time. To keep your hair color fresh, you’ll want to use a heat protectant that keeps the hair from absorbing too much of the heat, so it doesn’t lose its vibrancy or shine.